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Data Privacy Protection: How To Keep Your Online Presence Secure

From social media to financial accounts, online shopping, and medical records — everything seems to be online today. Although it certainly makes things convenient, it also poses potential risks to data security. 

According to Statista, in 2022, there were over 1800 data breaches in the United States that impacted over 422 million consumers. This makes it essential for individuals and businesses to do their part to ensure that data is secure and protected.

Ways To Safeguard Your Personal Information

Data breaches can put you at risk of identity theft, so it’s essential to be proactive in protecting your data privacy. 

Here are some helpful ways to safeguard your data and online browsing activity:

• Don’t use the same password for multiple sites
• Don’t use predictable passwords
• Use caution when using public Wi-Fi, as it’s unprotected
• Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection and prevent “spying” on your online activity
• Use two-factor authentication (2FA)
• Regularly update your browser and software with the latest security patches
• Be suspicious of unsolicited emails asking for personal information, as these are common phishing attempts
• Install an anti-virus on your computer
• Use a firewall
• Don’t download or click on attachments in unexpected emails, as they may install viruses on your computer or device
• Be selective about the information you share with companies or others online

Data Protection by a Business

Businesses have a responsibility to protect the data they have on file with the utmost vigilance. To enforce security measures, federal statutes have been enacted that require companies to protect sensitive information. Additionally, some states have enacted their own data privacy laws that must be followed.

Employees can unknowingly be exploited by hackers, so security policies must be in place, such as:

• Company-wide training on computer security and identifying scam tactics 
• Password changes every 30-90 days
• Restricting access to personal email and specific websites
• Complex password structures

logic-IT is an IT service provider based in Atlanta, Georgia. They’re a BCN member that helps local companies with managed IT services and solutions. Contact their team at #770.526.2790 for a discovery call today.

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